Arts
Creative achievements in literature and the visual and performing arts
Science Proves: Pop Music Has Actually Gotten Worse
Science confirms what you've always suspected: music these days is worse than it used to be.
July 27, 2012 |
By Rose Eveleth
How Aldous Huxley, 118 Today, Predicted the Present Far More Accurately than George Orwell
One of the pillars of science fiction would have turned 118 today.
July 26, 2012 |
By Rose Eveleth
The Deerstalker: Where Sherlock Holmes’ Popular Image Came From
The literary detective's hunting cap and cape came not so much from the books' author as from their illustrators
July 26, 2012 |
By Sarah C. Rich
The Long Journey of Chief Joseph’s War Shirt
Important Native American artifact seen in Smithsonian portrait fetches $877,500 at Nevada auction
July 25, 2012 |
By Emily Spivack
Hollywood’s Next Heist Movie Should Be Shot Here
No one knows exactly what's hidden in a giant warehouse in Sweden, but everyone agrees that it's really, really valuable.
July 25, 2012 |
By Rose Eveleth
When the Olympics Gave Out Medals for Art
In the modern Olympics’ early days, painters, sculptors, writers and musicians battled for gold, silver and bronze
July 25, 2012 |
By Joseph Stromberg
Today’s the Shared Anniversary of Ruin Porn Poster Children Detroit, Machu Picchu
July 24th marks double jackpot for the intrepid explorers of years past as well for as fans of the latest photographic trend, "ruin porn."
July 24, 2012 |
By Rachel Nuwer
Olympic Games at the Smithsonian
Before you settle into your couch to watch the Olympics, get down to the Smithsonian for exhibits, games and more.
July 24, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
Q&A: Archaeologist Unearths 600-year-old Bra in Castle
Though in tatters, the undergarment looks thoroughly modern. But was it comfortable!?
July 23, 2012 |
By Emily Spivack
Events July 24-26: Animal Migrations, Belly Dancing and the Invention of Klingon
This week at the Smithsonian, learn how animals find their way across continents, try out belly dancing and pick up a new language with the creator of Klingon.
July 23, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
Great Books—and the Best Places to Read Them
Reading while traveling can serve as a sensory supplement to one's surrounding environment. Here's a list of some of my favorite books and where to read them
July 21, 2012 |
By Alastair Bland
The History of the Olympic Pictograms: How Designers Hurdled the Language Barrier
Infographic design first appeared at the Olympics in 1948, when the games were last in London.
July 20, 2012 |
By Sarah C. Rich
40 Under 40 Opens at the Renwick Today
Forty artists honor 40 years of craft.
July 20, 2012 |
By Guest Blogger
Events July 20-22: Living Earth Festival, Movie Day, Book Signings at Air and Space
This weekend, celebrate Earth, have a movie day and check out some super cool planes at the Udvar-Hazy Center.
July 19, 2012 |
By K. Annabelle Smith
Documenting “the Last Green Spot Between NYC and Philly”
The area between New York City and Philadelphia is the most densely populated in the country. Yet documentary filmaker and environmental journalist Jared Flesher managed to pinpoint what he calls "the last green space" situated between these metropolises, depicting it in the new film "Sourlands."
July 19, 2012 |
By Rachel Nuwer
1927 Magazine Looks at Metropolis, “A Movie Based On Science”
How filmmakers created a gorgeous, dystopian future
July 19, 2012 |
By Matt Novak
Teen Photographers Win Spot at National Portrait Gallery
Winners of the museum's Teen Portrait Competition discuss their portraits and the stories behind them.
July 18, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
The Mystery of 221B Baker Street
Our series on Design and Sherlock Holmes begins with an investigation into the location of the famous detective's London flat
July 18, 2012 |
By Jimmy Stamp
The Swimsuit Series, Part 4: A Competitive Swimmer’s Musings
In Leanne Shapton's Swimming Studies "Bathing" chapter, there's a story behind every suit
July 17, 2012 |
By Emily Spivack
The Year Ahead in Archival Films
A guide to the movies being preserved now that will be available in future months
July 17, 2012 |
By Daniel Eagan
